How to stay in shape on the run

Who doesn’t like to travel? It’s safe to say that all of us look forward to our holidays where we can go visit new places, kick back and relax after breaking free from the everyday monotony. And with those holidays, most of us see our healthy eating and fitness goals fly right out the window – after all, it is a vacation, meant for us to enjoy and indulge ourselves.

But as enjoyable as the vacations are, along with relaxation another inevitable end result is vacation weight gain.

Those who travel for pleasure and some downtime can afford to indulge themselves while away from their hometown, mostly because they know that they will eventually get back into their regular routine as they return. But what of those who frequently travel for business, are travel bloggers, or are just out on a quest for world domination? How does one, who is perpetually on the go, stay in shape?

Here’s how:

Walk Around Town

One of the best ways to get in a workout on a trip, especially one that’s particularly jam-packed and doesn’t leave much time for anything is to walk, walk and then walk some more. Be sure to pack a sturdy pair of sneakers – they can be lifesavers on a long trip. Pick ones that are fashionable enough to go with a few of your outfits, are comfortable enough for you to walk hours in, and are strong enough to endure a solid workout should you get the chance for one. Ditch the private cars and the cabs and depend on your two feet to get your places – do that and there is no way you’re gaining anything.

Bike Tours

If you have a bit of a time to explore around the new city, town, or village, more so than you can manage on foot – instead of opting for a car or bus driven tour of the place, even if it is a hop-on-hop-off kind of deal, choose a bike tour instead. Cycling offers a great full workout and is a great way to commute, too. And if you can’t find a guided bike tour, we’re certain your hotel can arrange for a bike rental.

Seek Adventure Sports (if and when you can)

If you’re essentially on a lazy trip that may involve lots of sitting down, traveling to and from places, and basically lazing around, the best thing that you can do for yourself if seek adventure sports or activities as much as you possibly can. Have a meeting at 10? Wake up early and get in a hill-top hike before dawn. Are near the ocean? Get in some surfing. Try zip-lining, or kayaking or even short treks if you can find the opportunity for them.

Fitness Centers/Swimming Pools

We usually don’t recommend fitness centers at hotels – especially the ones that claim ‘state of the art’ status in very economical rates. Just doesn’t happen. But even if you want the most basic of fitness centers and have no other outlets to get in a workout, try and get in a run on the treadmill if you can. Otherwise, always try and opt for a hotel with a swimming pool. Even an hour of just basic treading water is enough of a workout to make you feel active.

Be Mindful of the Mindless Munching

Traveling, in any form of capacity means waiting – waiting at the airport for flights, generally just waiting during the flight, waiting for trains, taxis, etc. And waiting usually translates to eating or mindless munching. Either avoid eating completely besides the three set meals of the day, or if you must, instead of opting for sugary confectionary products, pick healthier snacks instead. Protein bars, ready to drink shakes, or trail-mixes will do better at keeping those calories in check and in keeping you fuller for a longer time.